Syrian Forces Surround French-Led Jihadist Camp Near Turkish Border

Syrian government forces have launched an operation to surround and raid a camp near the Turkish border in Idlib province, targeting a French-led jihadist group known as Firqat al Ghurabaa, led by Omar Diaby (also called Omar Omsen). Diaby, a Franco-Senegalese jihadist and propagandist accused of recruiting French militants and involved in serious violations including kidnapping a girl, refused to surrender and engaged in armed clashes with Syrian troops. He is a high-profile target under international sanctions and a French arrest warrant, linked to Al Qaeda-affiliated groups and blamed for inspiring French nationals to join militant factions in Syria. Syrian authorities accuse Diaby of using civilians as human shields and terrorizing local residents. The operation reflects ongoing efforts by the Syrian government under the new regime to dismantle remaining jihadist networks in the region following the end of the civil war and the rise of a former jihadist to power. The situation remains volatile with reports of continued fighting and government reinforcements at the camp.